This includes the Passat, which has had a core place in Volkswagen’s line-up for an impressive 50 years. It’s now returning for an impressive ninth generation, and it’s making quite the impression with a range of advancements and improvements.
Ahead of sales starting later in 2024, let’s take a look at the key things you need to know about the new Volkswagen Passat.
It’s larger and now only available as an estate
For quite a lot of years Volkswagen has sold the Passat as both a saloon and an estate, but for this new generation, the firm has taken the decision to discontinue the four-model due to slowing sales. It means this latest generation is now only available in the more practical estate car bodystyle.
It grows quite considerably in size too, being 14 cm longer than before (now measuring 4.92m), while the width has marginally increased as well.
Vast levels of interior space
Much of this increase in size has gone into making the Passat far more versatile and practical than before, and though the previous car was hardly lacking in space, this latest model is quite an improvement.
The boot’s size increases by 40 litres to a giant 690 litres – one of the most of any estate car – while with the rear seats folded, space increases by 140 litres to 1,920 litres. It’s worth noting that due to clever packaging, the boot is no smaller on the plug-in hybrid versions, unlike plenty of rivals.
Significantly improved plug-in hybrids
These plug-in hybrids also deserve a special mention, as it’s a brand-new powertrain being used on the Passat. Replacing the previous GTE, which sold very well, it uses a new 1.5-litre petrol engine as its base, rather than the old 1.4-litre unit. Power outputs of 201bhp and 268bhp will be offered.
But the real highlight of this plug-in model is that it uses a large 19.2kWh battery that allows the Passat to travel up to a claimed 62 miles on electricity. There will still be a broad range of petrol and diesel engines available too, with mild-hybrids offered for the first time on the Passat.
Impressive new touchscreen
The cabin of the previous Passat was just starting to show its age, but this new model is quite the makeover. Using higher-quality materials, it represents quite the upgrade, but the real highlight is the new touchscreen.
Coming in a 12.9-inch size as standard, or optional 15 inches, both use Volkswagen’s latest MIB4 software, which makes it far slicker to operate than the outgoing system, as well as access to more connected features.
Stylish new look
Not only do the increased dimensions of the Passat give it increased dimensions, but so does its smarter new look.
It’s quite different to the outgoing Passat, with a much smarter overall look thanks to sharper lines that help it to look lower and sportier. The R-Line grade is the real highlight, with its sportier bumpers and specific 18-inch alloy wheels giving it a really eye-catching look.